The stone spheres of Costa Rica are an assortment of over 300 petrospheres on the islands of Costa Rica. The spheres are commonly attributed to the extinct Diquís culture, and they are sometimes referred to as the Diquís Spheres. They are the best-known stone sculptures of the Isthmo-Colombian area. Many wonder about the purpose of the stone spheres' existence. They are thought to have been placed in lines along the approach to the houses of chiefs although nobody is certain. A few myths have been put forward as to how the stones came to be. Some people believe that the stones were used as compasses or are associated with the astronomical occurrences. Some legends state that the stones came from the lost continent of Atlantis while others state that the local inhabitants had a potion that was able to soften the rocks. Other people think that the stones were used as grave markers or used for marking the property of ancient leaders. According to some archaeologists' hypothesis the spheres could represent solar systems or just be inspired by various stages of the sun and the moon as viewed with the naked eye, including setting or rising suns, and half moons.